Italian champions are allegedly preparing to out-bid Real Madrid for the signature of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Speculation on the future of Ronaldo has been rife throughout the summer, but the focus has been on the debate between Madrid and Ronaldo's current club Manchester United.

Now though, its seems that another major European club will join the race for the Portuguese winger.

New Inter Milan manager Jose Mourinho has made no secret about his desire to sign former Chelsea colleges Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba, along with Deco, a crucial part of his Champions League winning Porto side.

Mourinho may well be able to add Ronaldo's name to his list of potential signings if reports of the Nerazzuri's big-money offer are true.

The move may seem unlikely considering Real's clear desire to sign the player, but it may not be as improbable as it seems.

Both Mourinho and Ronaldo share the same agent, Jorge Mendes, which could greatly simplify the negotiations between the former Chelsea boss and the Old Trafford star.

There is also said to be a great mutual respect and friendship between the two, which encourage Ronaldo to settle on a move to Milan instead of Madrid.

For their part, Manchester United continue to vehemently deny that they are willing to sell Ronaldo.

With a big money offer from Madrid almost a certainty, and the possibility of another massive bid from Massimo Moratti's Inter, it may be impossible for the English champions to hold out much longer.